The word fantasia has been defined as a piece where free flight of fancy prevails over contemporary conventions of form or style. The piece usually has an improvisatory character. The term can also imply a dream-like mood or fanciful whim. Fantasia: African Dreams was written as a result of many of the composer's life experiences. The piece began as a percussion ensemble with a percussion soloist. The soloist was to explore the tambourine and marimba. Shortly after beginning the composition, Salvers began to study African percussion. The piece was already making use of improvisation, so he decided to add the accompanying hand drum ensemble, and give the soloist a true opportunity to be a creator of music.